Telegram users can now report 'illegal content' in private chats
What's the story
Telegram, the popular messaging platform, has announced plans to intensify content moderation on its platform. This decision follows the arrest of CEO Pavel Durov in France for allegedly allowing "criminal activity to go on undeterred on the messaging app." The company has also removed a statement from its FAQ page that previously assured users their private chats were immune to moderation requests.
CEO's response
Durov's first public statement since arrest
In his first public statement since arrest, Durov pledged to increase content moderation on Telegram. This marks a significant shift from the company's initial stance that he had "nothing to hide." and "It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform." The CEO stated, "Telegram's abrupt increase in user count to 950 million caused growing pains that made it easier for criminals to abuse our platform," further committing to improving things.
Platform updates
Modifications already underway on Telegram
Telegram has already begun implementing changes, as evidenced by changes to the company's FAQ page. Previously, Telegram stated that "All Telegram chats and group chats are private amongst their participants. We do not process any requests related to them." However, this statement has been replaced with instructions on how users can flag illegal content for moderators using the 'Report' button in all Telegram apps.
Twitter Post
Take a look at Durov's post
I'm still trying to understand what happened in France. But we hear the
— Pavel Durov (@durov) September 5, 2024concerns. I made it my personal goal to prevent abusers of Telegram's platform from interfering with the future of our 950+ million users.
My full post below. https://t.co/cDvRSodjst
Legal issues
Charges against Telegram and its historical stance
Durov's arrest was prompted by preliminary charges from French authorities that Telegram was being used for distributing child sexual abuse material and drug trafficking. The company was also accused of refusing to cooperate with investigators. Historically, Telegram has been a source of vital information about Russia-Ukraine but has generally adopted a hands-off approach toward content moderation.